Legislator Anker Offers Safety Tips To Keep Boaters Safe This Summer

Mount Sinai – The summer season is a great time for activities such as boating and kayaking. Therefore, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker would like to take this time to remind residents to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety in and around the water.

Each year, thousands of people are injured due to boating accidents, but many injuries can be prevented if the proper steps are taken.

 

Please utilize the following tips to ensure a safe boating or paddling experience:

• All passengers should wear life jackets. Whether you are on a larger boat or in a kayak, it is always recommended you wear a life jacket. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that almost 80% of boating fatalities could have been prevented if life vests had been worn.
• Drivers must be educated before putting the boat to use. About 70% of boating accidents are due to errors that would not have happened if the driver knew their responsibilities and the rules of boating. All Suffolk County residents 18 years and older operating motorized recreational boats must take an approved boater safety course, pass an exam, and carry a boating safety certificate while boating in Suffolk County. A listing of NASBLA-approved Suffolk County courses can be found atwww.nysparks.com/recreation/boating/safety-courses.aspx.
• Look out for and avoid any hazards. This includes other boaters and inanimate objects in the water.
• Know before you go! Knowing the weather and water conditions ahead of time can help boaters make smart decisions about safety. Remember that conditions can change quickly, and it is important to stay alert.
• Know your physical and emotional limitations. Do not enter dangerous conditions unless you are sure you are a strong enough swimmer in case your boat capsizes.
• Always report any accidents that occur. While we hope that all boaters and swimmers remain safe, Federal Law requires an accident report to be filed if one does occur.

Legislator Anker wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable boating season. For more information on boating, please visit. www.uscgboating.org.  For more information on paddling, please visit www.americancanoe.org.

Brookhaven News Business Idea: Grow your small business with one of the best services available. Visit this link and learn more about savings available for you.